Chapter 71
The next morning, when Lyman woke up, Effie was already in the kitchen, finishing up breakfast.
She glanced over as he stepped out, offering him a warm smile. "Come have something to eat. You drank a bit too much last night, so I made you some soup this morning. It's easy on the stomach."
Lyman couldn't help but smile back. "I'm sorry to trouble you."
"It's no trouble at all." Effie ladled a bowl of the creamy soup and set it in front of him.
Lyman looked down at the simple meal. The soup was thick and velvety, clearly simmered for a long time. A sudden wave of gratitude rose in his chest.
He sat down and began to eat, his movements graceful and composed.
To go with the soup, Effie had also prepared some crisp pickled cucumbers and fried eggs.
Lyman ate with genuine enjoyment, every bite bringing a little comfort. Seeing this, Effie finally relaxed.
breakfast was done, Lyman spoke up. "Let the driver take you to the office today. I have a business trip-should be back in two or three
blinked in surprise at first, then quickly recovered. "It's fine,
pick me up for the
He gave her a few quick instructions, packed a couple of changes of clothes,
and officially started her first day of
assigned her a young assistant, Shirley. "Ms. Bagnold, if you have any questions,
smiled. "Thank you. Go ahead with your work-I'll
heads sent
course," Shirley replied
into her
noon, her phone rang. Shepard's name flashed on
ignore it, but she knew her father-if she
picked up. "What is it?" Her voice was cool and
father, not your enemy," Shepard
but I'm past the age where I need a father's affection," she shot back, in no mood for
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